BACKWARD Synonyms: 88 Similar and Opposite Words

backward 1 of 2

adverb

ˈbak-wərd

variants or backwards

Definition of backward next

as in back

toward the rear looking backward, we could see the town receding in the distance

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in down

toward the opposite direction the loud noise prompted him to glance backward to see what was happening

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

backward

2 of 2

adjective

as in reverse

directed, turned, or done toward the back a backward turn on ice skates is hard to learn because you can't see where you're going

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

forward

as in withdrawn

not comfortable around people curiously, the quiet, backward man opened up when around other introverts

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of backward

Adverb

Several times, a man climbs a tower of other men, then plummets backward into the arms of his brothers. —

The New Yorker, 24 Jan. 2025 In 2013, for instance, researchers designed a reusable dry adhesive inspired by the gecko's feet that easily stuck to smooth surfaces, adhering strongly when pushed forward and sliding off when pulled backward. —

Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 4 Feb. 2025

Adjective

In the early hours of January 26, Chalamet was photographed arriving at the SNL after-party in a peak Gen-Z look, pairing baggy gray jeans with a studded belt, slim black sneakers, a large Yankees jacket, and a backward cap. —

Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 27 Jan. 2025 Pair of Glasses Shemar Moore keeps it casual in a backward cap and unbuttoned shirt while on Jennifer Hudson's talk show in Burbank, California, on Jan. 23. —

Alexandra Schonfeld, People.com, 24 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for backward

Recent Examples of Synonyms for backward

Adverb

But two-time national championship point guard Tristen Newton was welcomed back to Connecticut at the under-12 media timeout, earning a standing ovation.

— Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 19 Feb. 2025
In June 2023, Pope Francis was admitted back to the Gemelli University Hospital for abdominal surgery, according to Vatican News.

— Greta Cross, USA TODAY, 19 Feb. 2025